Self Pay??

I do understand that, but having the authority does not mean that ALL insurers to small businesses opt to "carve out" the exception to the mandate. They often DO NOT make the small business employer purchase additional riders, and I'm telling you that the comprehensive standard packages often do have the coverage included per the mandate. You are obviously passionate and knowledgable on the subject and it's probably because of people like you that we have come this far. Keep up the good work! I again just don't want discouragement to new members. It happened to me. I logged on for the first time to get information and someone replied to a post regarding my situation telling me I had no chance because of the "laws and regulations" in Maryland. I was crushed not knowing any better. So for someone to generally post that the laws make it impossible for anyone working for a "small business" to have the surgery is unfounded and disappointing. To state that we have NOT achieved a mandate is wrong, we have. It's not the mandate you want,it's not the mandate we all need, but it is a mandate that the coverage must be provided and so far it's made approval for WLS possible for thousands in MD, a large percentage I would venture to say worked and received health insurance from "small businesses". There are so many factors involved in getting approval for WLS and every case is an individual one. I'm just saying it's not an all or nothing situation. The mandate is there and it's getting easier regardless of the size of the employer providing the health insurance. Happy Holidays

"So for someone to generally post that the laws make it impossible for anyone working for a "small business" to have the surgery is unfounded and disappointing." Maybe you're referring to Leesa and not me, but I never said it was impossible. I said "my employer qualifies as a small business and therefore doesn't have to cover anything obesity-related," as in they're not *required* to. If I understand correctly, you're lucky enough to work for a small business that supports its employees. But I would assume that most businesses are more concerned with the financial bottom line, and buying the insurance which doesn't cover obesity-related expenses is obviously cheaper for them. I realize you just don't want to discourage people, and I appreciate that, but I would think most people would try to go the insurance route first anyway.

Hi Jeannie, I was self-pay for WLS, tummy tuck and my next round of plastics on Feb 8th... Would I pay for WLS again??? In a New York Minute!!! Not exactly sure what type of info you need/want but fire away with your questions...I am happy to help out. Best wishes to you... RAE

Thanks for all the info. I do work for a large company and they do cover the surgery, but they have very strict guidlines for approval, which I am finding out. I'm not giving up, I'm going to keep on with the appeals.